the minimum possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the minimum possible' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has been reduced, or minimized, to the lowest amount possible. For example: "We have reduced employee hours to the minimum possible in order to stay within budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The government has done "the minimum possible".

The Guardian

So X must have the minimum possible energy.

Nature

We employ the minimum possible hypotheses on the spectral triples.

Journal of Functional Analysis

On May 23 , 1990 having served the minimum possible sentence, Unterweger was paroled.

The New York Times

Ms. Carr will be released in March, after serving one month more than the minimum possible.

The New York Times

The best you can do is to try to make the potential risk the minimum possible".

The Guardian

The overwhelming impression is of the minimum possible degree of transparency being grudgingly conceded.

The Guardian - Opinion

The minimum possible ageing effect was only somewhat lower, at 0.32% per year.

The Guardian - Opinion

The regulations were announced with the minimum possible time for consultation, but the public outcry was nevertheless considerable.

The Guardian

Finally, it is shown that the minimum possible number of compressor cycles can be estimated.

Control Engineering Practice

The minimum possible diameter depends on mass flow rate (capacity) and division of flow path.

International Journal of Thermal Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for brevity or efficiency, use "the minimum possible" to indicate the most reduced state or action. This is particularly effective in technical or formal writing where conciseness is valued.

Common error

While grammatically sound, avoid using "the minimum possible" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "the least" or "the smallest" may sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the minimum possible" functions as an adjectival modifier used to specify that something has been reduced to, or exists at, its lowest conceivable or allowable extent. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase indicates a boundary or limit.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the minimum possible" is a versatile phrase used to denote the lowest extent or degree achievable. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, notably in scientific, news, and formal settings. While alternatives like "the absolute minimum" or "the smallest achievable" exist, "the minimum possible" provides a clear and concise way to express the idea of minimizing something to its lower limit. Remember to use it judiciously in informal contexts, where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the absolute minimum

Stresses the concept of a non-negotiable lower boundary that cannot be surpassed.

the floor

Illustrates a non-negotiable lower boundary beyond which values cannot decrease.

the least attainable

Emphasizes the difficulty or constraints in reaching an even lower value, focusing on achievability.

the smallest achievable

Highlights the actual attainment of a minimal value, stressing the successful reduction to that point.

the bare minimum

Implies a minimal effort or provision, adequate only for basic needs or requirements.

the rock-bottom value

Signifies a low value, evoking a sense of stability at that level, unlikely to decrease further.

the reduced extent

Emphasizes the process of diminishing to a limited scale or scope.

the nethermost limit

Introduces a spatial metaphor for a lower bound, suggesting a point at the furthest extreme.

the nadir

Uses a nautical metaphor to indicate the lowest point reached.

the infimum

Refers to mathematical concept of a lower bound that may not be reached, but limits a set of values.

FAQs

How can I use "the minimum possible" in a sentence?

You can use "the minimum possible" to describe the lowest amount, degree, or extent of something achievable or permissible. For example, "We reduced the budget to "the minimum possible" amount without compromising quality."

What are some alternatives to "the minimum possible"?

Some alternatives include "the absolute minimum", "the smallest achievable", or "the bare minimum". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "the minimum possible" and "the absolute minimum"?

"The minimum possible" refers to the lowest value that can be attained in a given situation. "The absolute minimum" emphasizes that the value cannot go any lower under any circumstances. Although very close in meaning, "the absolute minimum" highlights the non-negotiable nature of the lower boundary.

Which is correct, "the minimum possible effort" or "the least possible effort"?

Both "the minimum possible effort" and "the least possible effort" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. "The minimum possible" is slightly more formal, while "the least possible" might sound more natural in everyday conversation. However, "the least effort" is much more common than both alternatives.